Report shows Minnesota early childhood programs reduce crime

HASTINGS, Minn.—An anti-crime group says it is releasing a report that shows quality early childhood education programs can reduce crime.

Members of the group Fight Crime: Invest in Kids say the report being released Thursday shows that state and federal early childhood programs could reduce the number of people incarcerated in Minnesota and lead to $48 million in savings in inmate housing costs for the state each year.

Members of the group are also releasing a letter urging Congress to implement a $99 billion early childhood education proposal. They say the Obama administration's proposal will give states resources to strengthen and expand preschool to low- and moderate-income students nationwide.

Dakota County Sheriff Dave Bellows and Attorney Jim Backstrom will announce details of the report Thursday at the Dakota County jail.